Archives for August 2015

The Munich chapter of the General German Bicycle Club (ADFC) is presenting its specially designed plan for Munich’s first high-speed cycle track. Different routes in Munich have been examined as the ADFC looked at opportunities to optimise and reshape, as well as measures for implementation. The route suggested by the ADFC connects, among other things, the Northern BMW manufacturing facility employing over 10,000 workers with the Ludwig Maximilian University and the central train station around 8km to the South. Along this recommended route live around 150,000 people. There is thus a great potential for use, given the framework conditions.

For the realisation of this project, track extensions, new markings and sign-postings are primarily necessary. Certain track sections must be built from scratch, some kerb stone edges need lowering and bollards have to be erected. The district chapter estimates that the full cost of investment, excluding planning, will be around 1 million Euros.

Comparing this to the benefits which this no doubt heavily used track will bring, such as…

The relief this would bring to car traffic and thus traffic jams as well as CO2 emissions in the city

Healthier, less stressed and more mobile citizens

Less noise and accidents

More room on the streets for many years to come

… this is clearly a sensible investment.

High-speed cycle track does not equal normal cycle track!

A high-speed cycle track is a special type of cycle track. On it, cyclists take precedence and have the opportunity to cycle longer routes comfortably, quickly and safely. Even during the planning, care is taken to enable higher cycling speeds and to integrate as few stops as possible. A high-speed cycle tracks aims to connect relevant destinations and to motivate drivers to make the shift to cycling, which is quieter, healthier and saves space.

Outside the Bavarian borders there have already been some trailblazers. Back in late 2013, the first section of a four-kilometre high-speed e-cycle track was inaugurated in Göttingen. In mid-2015, the entire e-cycle track was completed.